URBED has been working on behalf of Blackburn Council with King Sturge to find a suitable Developer Partner to deliver a major mixed used scheme in the heart of Blackburn Town Centre within the Cathedral Quarter.

Blackburn is located within East Lancashire with good access to the country's motorway network by way of the M65 accessed within 4km of the town centre. Manchester City Centre, Preston and Burnley are easily accessible via the main road network and by train. As well as good connectivity Blackburn also benefits from proximity to attractive countryside with both the West Pennine Moors and the Ribble Valley close by.

The first phase opportunity extends over c 7.5 ha (within a wider potential regeneration area of 17.2 ha) and includes the Blackburn Cathedral and the town's main rail station. Proposals for the area will include:

The established plans for diocesan accommodation, residential and office uses on Cathedral land

A new transport interchange adjacent to the train station

Offices

Leisure

Hotel

Residential

Ancillary Retail

High quality public realm

The Council and its partners were seeking a developer team that demonstrates an understanding of the importance of this town centre and gateway site and the need to deliver an exceptional scheme that defines the area and provides a high quality public environment.

URBED were also working closely with Blackburn Council, the Academy for Sustainable Communities and English Partnerships to ensure that the regeneration of Blackburn Town Centre includes opportunities for the whole community to get involved and encourages a mix of uses that will foster community cohesion.